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Phonognatha graeffei (Keyserling, 1865) Leaf Curling Spider

Recently in the Tetragnathidae, this spider has been moved back into the Araneidae by Kuntner et al 2008 (reported in Platnick 9.5). This spider is usually recognised its curled dry leaf hanging in an untidy web, sometimes with its legs showing. The leaf hangs about 1-2m from the ground in shrubbery, often in suburban gardens. At full stretch this spider (including legs) is about the size of a 50c piece. It is thought to be harmless to humans but will bite if provoked, resulting in mild local pain. When an insect lands in its web the spider will rush out and immobilise it with silk, otherwise all than can usually be seen is the retreat (see picture below).

Adult, from above


Spider Leaf Curling
Photo: Robert Whyte

Female North Stradbroke Island


Phonognatha
Photo: Robert Whyte

Male North Stradbroke Island


Phonognatha
Photo: Robert Whyte

Curled leaf


This photo shows the typical curled leaf that is suspended in the web, usually vertically with the opening at the bottom. The spider hides in here until it senses something to eat has landed in its web.

Phonognatha graeffei Leaf Curling Spider
Photo: Robert Whyte

Female, from above


Phonognatha graeffei Leaf Curling Spider
Photo: Robert Whyte

Female, from side


Phonognatha graeffei Leaf Curling Spider
Photo: Robert Whyte

Male, oblique view


Phonognatha graeffei Leaf Curling Spider
Photo: Robert Whyte

Male from above

Phonognatha graeffei Leaf Curling Spider
Photo: Robert Whyte

Male from side


Phonognatha graeffei Leaf Curling Spider
Photo: Robert Whyte

P. melanopygia Female 151210 Cairns Botanic Gardens from side


The north Queensland variety seems to have a much more barrel-shaped abdomen than the South East Queensland.

Phonognatha graeffei
Photo: Robert Whyte

P. melanopygia Female 151210 Cairns Botanic Gardens from side


P
Photo: Robert Whyte

P. melanopygia Female 151210 Cairns Botanic Gardens facing


Phonognatha graeffei
Photo: Robert Whyte

 
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